A recent study by hearing health company eargym has unveiled the extent of stigma surrounding hearing loss in the UK, with half of British people knowing someone who needs a hearing check, yet only one in five would take action upon being informed. Among those who voiced concerns about a loved one’s hearing, one in four faced defensiveness or upset reactions. Despite this, less than a third of individuals agreed to undergo a hearing test, and only one in five actually pursued further evaluation.
Moreover, a quarter of those who noticed signs of hearing loss never raised the issue, citing reasons such as not knowing how to broach the topic or fearing upsetting the individual. This reluctance to address hearing loss reveals a pervasive stigma surrounding the condition, impacting both discussions with loved ones and the willingness to seek professional help.
Earlier research by eargym revealed that one in three adults feel apprehensive or embarrassed about wearing hearing aids publicly. Conversely, young people exhibit more openness towards hearing health, with some even expressing confidence and excitement about using hearing aids. These findings highlight the importance of raising public awareness about hearing loss and the significance of timely intervention.
In response to these challenges, eargym co-founder Andy Shanks emphasized the necessity of normalizing discussions about hearing health across all age groups and encouraging routine check-ups. Eargym, founded by former NHS CEO Amanda Philpott and DJ Andy Shanks, offers auditory training games through a mobile app to enhance users’ listening skills and promote proactive measures to protect hearing.
As hearing loss can have profound social and communication implications, initiatives like eargym aim to empower individuals to prioritise their hearing health and overcome the barriers imposed by stigma. By fostering open conversations and regular monitoring of hearing, the long-term impact of hearing loss can be mitigated for millions of people in the UK.
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